Get ready to go offroad

Snatch Strap and Shackles

Snatch straps are used to connect the bogged vehicle to another so they can pull you out. 

They are often used if for recoveries from sand and mud boggings, but it can also work well in rocky terrain with a gentle pull. This flexibility makes the snatch strap compulsory equipment on all bush trips.

However, you should always use them with caution; they are also incredibly dangerous and have killed people in the past. Make sure you know how to use it properly before heading off-road.

A good 4WD recovery kit should be rated for your vehicle's weight. You should not get an over or undersized snatch strap, so make sure you get the proper gear.

Rated bow shackles are designed to safely secure recovery straps to a recovery point on your vehicle.

You will need a minimum of two shackles that fit the recovery points at the front and rear of your 4WD. They are generally rated 4.75 tonne rated each. 

If you have hooks, it's better to use them over a shackle. If you need to join two straps, join them correctly, without a shackle.

Rated Recovery Points

You need at least one rated recovery point on the front, and at the rear, so you can be recovered from either direction. These are necessary for a safe recovery with snatch straps. You should not be using tie down points which are not rated for recovery.

If you have a hitch receiver on the rear, you can recover off the pin. Just don’t do it off a tow ball!

Radio

Fact is most 4WD destinations won’t have mobile service, but a radio can help you locate someone who can help. They are also handy if you are in a convoy with other 4wding enthusiasts to easily communicate with each other.

You can start with a cheap handheld device, but the chances are you will quickly notice they don't have as clear audio or range as an in-vehicle set-up does.

Air compressor to inflate tyres

Once you’ve finished your adventure, you need to pump your tyres back up. Driving with deflated tyres on bitumen can cause permanent damage to your tyres if you aren’t careful. It’s not safe to drive with low pressures at higher speeds.

Air compressors are easily shared between mates, but having your own means you will be done quicker and ready to go home. 

Winch

If you’re on a solo trip, a winch is the most crucial accessory you will need to get yourself out of trouble. It’s peace of mind that you can fully recover your vehicle no matter what track you travel down.

All the gear and no idea?

Now you got the gear, the most important is to learn how to use the equipment. Some can be extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Instructional videos on Youtube can be very useful, but the best way to learn how to safely use your gear is to do a practical 4x4 course that includes a module on vehicle recovery.